Statement by Hon. Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, at the IFNEC Ministerial Conference on November 2, 2023
Accra, Ghana
In a momentous address at the IFNEC Ministerial Conference held on November 2, 2023, Hon. Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, extended a warm welcome to distinguished guests, dignitaries, and leaders in the field of nuclear energy.
Dr. Afriyie conveyed warm greetings from the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo Addo, who graced the Gala Dinner on the previous evening. He expressed sincere gratitude to all attendees for accepting the invitation to convene in Ghana for this crucial conference.
The Minister underscored the unanimous commitment to decarbonize global energy sources, emphasizing the significance of this conference as an opportunity to foster robust technical cooperation, hosted in the heart of the world, Ghana.
Dr. Afriyie illuminated Ghana’s historical nuclear ambition, tracing it back to the 1960s. This aspiration regained momentum in response to the pressing demands of a growing energy sector and the challenges posed by climate change. He proudly announced Ghana’s status as a phase 2 nuclear newcomer country, achieved through adherence to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) milestone approach.
The Minister highlighted that Ghana’s current nuclear program status was not a result of chance but a conscious choice. He stressed the importance of a well-structured program for the success of a nuclear project. Ghana has diligently built a robust nuclear program over the years, with the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation spearheading the development of vital institutions, including the Nuclear Regulatory Authority and Nuclear Power Ghana.
Dr. Afriyie assured continued support from the Ministry and its nuclear agency, the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, in implementing the nuclear program. He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to its energy transition plan, where nuclear energy would remain a key component, working closely with fellow ministers on the inter-ministerial committee overseeing this transition.
The Minister concluded by reiterating Ghana’s commitment to international best practices and collaboration with global partners to ensure a successful nuclear energy program.